Why does wave refraction occur in ocean waves?

Wave refraction occurs in ocean waves due to the variation in wave speed as they approach shallow water. As waves move from deeper to shallower areas, their speed decreases, causing the waves to bend. This bending occurs because different parts of the wave front travel at different speeds, resulting in a change in direction. Consequently, wave refraction influences the wave energy distribution along the shoreline, often leading to increased erosion or deposition in certain areas.